### Lakers' Rui Hachimura Poised for Return After Injury Layoff - Rui Hachimura, a forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, has been sidelined for six games due to right calf soreness. His potential return is anticipated within the week, which could significantly impact the team's performance as they navigate the season. Hachimura is recognized as one of the team's most effective catch-and-shoot players, making his return a crucial development for the Lakers as they aim to strengthen their lineup [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lakers-hopeful-rui-hachimura-return-223319326.html][https://www.sgvtribune.com/2026/01/11/hachimura-on-the-verge-of-return-for-lakers]. ### Breakdown of Hachimura's Injury Status and Expected Return 1. **Current Injury Status**: Hachimura has missed the last six games due to calf soreness, with the latest reports indicating he is on track to return soon [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lakers-hopeful-rui-hachimura-return-223319326.html]. 2. **Impact on Team**: His absence has been felt, particularly in the shooting department, as he is considered the Lakers' best catch-and-shoot player [https://www.sgvtribune.com/2026/01/11/hachimura-on-the-verge-of-return-for-lakers]. 3. **Practice Updates**: Hachimura has been practicing with the South Bay Lakers, suggesting he is making progress towards a return [https://lebronwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/2026/01/08/rui-hachimura-practiced-with-south-bay-lakers-on-wednesday/88080694007]. 4. **Game Availability**: He is listed as questionable for upcoming games, with a strong possibility of playing in the next match against Sacramento [https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/basketball/news/lakers-rui-hachimura-questionable-for-friday]. ### Supporting Evidence of Hachimura's Impact and Recovery - **Games Missed**: Hachimura has missed a total of six games due to his injury, which has raised concerns about the Lakers' offensive capabilities during his absence [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lakers-share-rui-hachimura-5-015342865.html]. - **Practice Participation**: His recent participation in practice with the South Bay Lakers indicates a positive trajectory in his recovery process [https://lebronwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/2026/01/08/rui-hachimura-practiced-with-south-bay-lakers-on-wednesday/88080694007]. - **Team Performance**: The Lakers have struggled without Hachimura, emphasizing the importance of his return to enhance their shooting efficiency and overall team dynamics [https://www.sgvtribune.com/2026/01/11/hachimura-on-the-verge-of-return-for-lakers]. ### Conclusion: Hachimura's Return Could Be a Game-Changer for the Lakers - **Anticipated Return**: Hachimura is expected to return to the lineup soon, potentially for the game against Sacramento, which could provide a much-needed boost to the Lakers [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lakers-hopeful-rui-hachimura-return-223319326.html]. - **Team Dynamics**: His return is crucial for improving the Lakers' offensive strategy, particularly in catch-and-shoot scenarios, where he excels [https://www.sgvtribune.com/2026/01/11/hachimura-on-the-verge-of-return-for-lakers]. - **Future Outlook**: As the Lakers continue to navigate the season, Hachimura's health and performance will be pivotal in their quest for success [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lakers-share-rui-hachimura-5-015342865.html].